Getting Around – Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap has interesting traffic mostly because it’s a mix of American and European practices. Cars drive on the right side of the road but are set up with the steering wheel on the right (like cars made for left-lane driving). However, drivers often turn left in front of oncoming traffic without giving it a second thought (like cars in Thailand, which drive on the left side of the road).

Tuk-tuks: Cambodian tuk-tuks are two-man carriages attached to the back of motorbikes. You can rent a tuk-tuk driver to take you around the city and to and from Angkor Wat for $10-12 U.S. per day.

Motorbike taxis: If you’re alone, try renting a motorbike with a driver to take you to Angkor Wat ($6-12 U.S.) or around Siem Reap. Just hold on tight.

Bicycles: Some guesthouses will rent bicycles for $5 U.S. Cambodian road rules deem that might makes right, so keep an eye on all other traffic. Also, it’s best to travel only short distances before sunrise or after sunset (check about headlights and reflectors on your bike).

Taxis: You won’t find these for in-town transport but if you want one to take you back to the border, some guesthouses can arrange it (see “Getting a Room“). Our fare was $27 U.S.; the extra cost is worth arriving at the border faster and feeling less cramped. (Fortunately, we met two other people who were also heading to Thailand, so we actually saved money this way!)